Tragic Loss in D.C.: Congressional Intern Gunned Down in Senseless Shooting

In a heartbreaking, senseless turn of events, Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, a 21-year-old University of Massachusetts Amherst student interning for Rep. Ron Estes (R-KS), was shot and killed Monday night in Washington, D.C. The Metropolitan Police Department reports the shooting occurred around 10:28 p.m. on the 1200 block of 7th Street, Northwest. 

Tarpinian-Jachym, who succumbed to his injuries Tuesday, was not the intended target, police say, as multiple suspects exited a vehicle and opened fire on a group. An adult female and a 16-year-old male were also wounded and hospitalized.

This isn’t just another statistic in D.C.’s spiraling crime wave, it’s a gut-punch to a family, a community, and a nation that’s had enough of this senseless violence. Tarpinian-Jachym, a finance major with a political science minor, was a rising senior with a bright future. His parents, Tamara and Robert Jachym, shared their anguish in a statement to Fox News Digital:

"We are devastated by the tragic and senseless loss of our beloved Eric, a 21-year-old young man full of promise, purpose, and heart. Eric was an exceptionally bright and kind soul, with a deep love for the outdoors. He found joy and peace in nature, whether hiking through the woods or casting a line into a quiet stream while fishing."

They described a young man passionate about public service, thrilled by his internship with Estes, and driven to “make the world a better, more just place.” That dream was stolen in a hail of bullets. The Trump administration, through a White House spokesman, vowed to pursue justice:

"President Trump was elected to Make America Safe Again, and he’s empowering his Justice Department, federal, state, and local law enforcement, and prosecutors to hold violent criminals accountable and deliver justice to grieving families, like the family of Eric Tarpinian-Jachym. This Administration will ensure full justice is served and is working tirelessly to end the senseless killing of innocent lives."

Rep. Estes, mourning the loss, praised Eric’s warmth and dedication:

"I will remember his kind heart and how he always greeted anyone who entered our office with a cheerful smile. We are grateful to Eric for his service to Kansas’ 4th District and the country."

A friend, Phillip Peterson, told the outlet about their bond:

"We met in early January and we really started to hit things off. After the program we discussed becoming roommates, but I didn’t want to move back to D.C. because I despise the culture so much. Unfortunately that fell through. I legitimately do regret now not going back to D.C. just so I could have spent more time with my friend."

Peterson’s regret underscores the ripple effect of this tragedy; a life cut short, connections severed, potential unfulfilled. Tarpinian-Jachym, who also participated in a fellowship with The Fund for American Studies, leaves behind a legacy of kindness and ambition.

The Metropolitan Police are offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction. Anyone with details should call (202) 727-9099. 

But let’s be blunt: rewards and investigations won’t bring Eric back. This is a wake-up call. How many more bright young lives must be lost before we get serious about crushing the crime plaguing our cities? The Trump administration’s pledge to restore safety can’t come soon enough.

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